Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! This recipe is a fantastic twist on the classic Italian cannoli, combining the creamy filling and chocolatey goodness into a pie that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this pie is sure to become a favorite at your table.

What makes this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie truly special is its creamy filling, which is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, allowing you to savor every moment with loved ones rather than spending too much time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dessert in no time!
• Creamy and dreamy flavors: The combination of mascarpone and ricotta cheeses creates a luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
• Family-friendly treat: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every bite, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare it ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge for an even more delightful experience!
• Chocolatey goodness: The mini chocolate chips add a sweet crunch that elevates this dessert to another level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. These items are easily found at your local grocery store, making this recipe accessible for everyone!

For the Crust

• 2¼ cups vanilla wafer crumbs (~60 vanilla wafers; you can use graham cracker crumbs instead)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (i.e. 1 8-oz. container)
• ½ cup confectioner’s sugar
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2-3 tsp lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1⅓ cups mini chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few fun variations to consider:

• Try different crusts: Swap out the vanilla wafer crumbs for crushed graham crackers or even cookies like Oreos for a unique flavor.
• Add fruit: Mix in some chopped strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing twist.
• Change up the chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of mini ones for a richer flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or some espresso powder to enhance the filling’s flavor profile.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a pie dish. Baking it for about 10 minutes helps set the crust so it’s nice and crisp.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In another bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese and confectioner’s sugar until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest; mix well. Then fold in the ricotta cheese until everything is nicely blended. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into your cheese mixture along with 1 cup of mini chocolate chips.

Step 3: Assemble Your Pie

Once your crust has cooled down, pour the creamy filling into it. Smooth out the top with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top for that extra touch of sweetness!

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover your pie with plastic wrap or foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours—overnight is best! This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Now you’re ready to slice up this amazing Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! Your friends and family will be asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Creating a delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is easier than you might think, and with these handy tips, you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills!

• Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your mascarpone and ricotta cheese will significantly impact the flavor. Fresh ingredients make for a creamier filling and a tastier pie.

• Chill the pie: Allowing your pie to chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures that it holds its shape when sliced. Patience pays off!

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix in additional flavors like almond extract or orange zest. These can add an unexpected twist that makes your pie uniquely yours.

• Layer the chocolate chips: Instead of mixing all the chocolate chips into the filling, consider layering some on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also gives you those delicious little bites of chocolate as you dig in.

• Serve with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds an extra layer of indulgence. You can whip it up easily using heavy cream and sugar for an irresistible topping.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Presenting your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie can elevate its appeal and make it even more enjoyable for you and your guests. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Shaved chocolate: Sprinkle some shaved dark or white chocolate on top of the pie just before serving for a sophisticated touch.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only add color but also a refreshing aroma that complements the richness of the pie.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving gives your pie an elegant finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with this dessert, balancing out the sweetness and adding depth to each bite.
• Fruits: Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast that cuts through the richness of the cannoli filling, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beside your slice adds an extra layer of indulgence and is simply delightful when combined with the chocolatey cannoli pie.
• Chocolate sauce drizzle: For true chocoholics, serving your pie with a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce can take it over the top—rich, decadent, and utterly delicious!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every creamy, chocolaty bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover filling, store it separately in an airtight container.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap slices of the pie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, let the pie come to room temperature before serving.
• If you prefer it slightly chilled, you can serve it straight from the fridge.
• Avoid reheating in the oven or microwave to preserve the texture of the filling.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert:

Can I use a different type of cheese for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

Yes! While mascarpone and ricotta are traditional choices for cannoli filling, you can experiment with cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative if desired. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

How long does Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie last in the fridge?

Properly stored, this delicious pie will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s covered well to maintain its freshness!

Can I make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie without heavy whipping cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy whipping cream with a non-dairy whipped topping or whipped coconut cream for a lighter version while still enjoying that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie as much as I do! It’s such a special treat that brings together creamy goodness with delightful chocolate chips. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this pie is bound to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you’ll be so glad you did!